Decades in the making, Chris has spent most of his musical career adding, editing and expanding the bespoke repertoire of this septet. Focusing on the music of Duke Ellington, Chris has been careful to keep arrangements true to the original sounds and colours. Themes from as early as the 1920’s and 30’s (‘The Mooche’, ‘Rocking in Rhythm’ ‘Old Man Blues’) are faithfully recreated and juxtaposed against the great man’s seasoned compositions of the 1940’s, 50’s and beyond (‘Concerto for Cootie’, ‘Jack The Bear’, ‘Isfhan’). For cliched renditions of ‘Take The A Train’, look elsewhere!
The band also play music from the peers of Duke – Basie, Charlie Barnett, Kenton and yes, when appropriate a spot of the war time hits of Miller. We are also often joined by our talented vocalist, Ms. Lucy Pickering who adds an element of assortment to create an engaging musical showcase whether it be for the jazz aficionado or a festival goer of more eclectic jazz tastes.
The line up includes lead trumpet playing legend Gabriel Garrick, arranger and band leader Chris Coull, alto sax and clarinet Andy Panayi / Andrew Mears, trombone Mike Pilley / Jonty Hill. The rhythm section boasts the likes of Terry Seabrook (piano), George Trebar (bass) and one of the best big band drummers in the country in the form of Peter Cater.
There are no upcoming events.